Mao Shimada prepares for senior international debut at Kinoshita Group Cup

Figure skater Mao Shimada completed final preparations for her senior international debut at the Kinoshita Group Cup in Tokyo. The 17-year-old, who previously achieved four consecutive World Junior titles, successfully landed a triple axel during official practice sessions.

Shimada expressed inspiration after observing Alexandra Ignatova (formerly Torosova), a 2022 Beijing Olympic silver medalist competing as an AIN athlete, perform a quadruple Lutz. Shimada noted the difference in jump height and power, stating that seeing the maneuver in person provided significant motivation as she aims to incorporate high-level jumps into her own repertoire.

The competition, part of the Challenger Series, features several high-level competitors, including athletes from Russia participating under neutral status.